RAMAYANA
The Adiveda Weekly #81
Hari Aum Sadhakas
This week we touch upon the timeless narrative of the Ramayana and into the unparalleled wisdom encapsulated within its verses. Unravel the epic tale of Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, as penned by the venerable sage Valmiki, the adi-kavi—the world's first poet. Explore the universal appeal and impact of the Ramayana, transcending borders and resonating across diverse cultures. Join us on this intellectual pilgrimage as we reflect upon the eternal verities embedded in the story of Rama, discovering profound insights into human nature, righteousness, and the enduring power of love. We celebrate the historic inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22nd by Prime Minister Sri Modiji. This monumental event symbolizes a triumphant return for Sri Rama to his sacred homeland after 500 years. Join the celebration by illuminating your homes with lamps on this auspicious day.
Jai Sri Rama!
-Adiveda Team
The full blog for this week:
The Sanatana Dharma
The Ramayana may be an ancient chronicle, but it has had a deep impact on the human mind even in modern times. We live in an age that is at a loss to know the meaning of human existence and doubts the existence of God. We are perplexed as to how we can act with righteousness when the whole world seems to have gone mad, when the meaning of truth and love cannot be found, and when hate and self-interest seem to be the only rules of conduct, from the highest to the lowest. Answers to these perplexing questions can be found in the Ramayana, for human nature, as such, has hardly changed through the years. Situations may change, avataras come and go, but human nature remains the same. However, the individual can and must change if society is to progress, and the characters found in this book are worthy of emulation. Our lives may well take a turn for the better when we read of the heroic way in which Rama and Sita faced the trials and tribulations of their lives. Herein lies the greatness of Rama.
Reflection of the Week
In Rama, God took on a human form with all its frailties to show us how our aspirations for a dharmic life can be fulfilled. In him, we see how we can surmount our frailties and become divine, if we are prepared to completely subjugate the ego, live only for the good of the world, and act in consonance with the duties and obligations of our particular positions in society. Valmiki’s Rama is the portrait of a man who shakes off the limitations of mortality and becomes divine by strict adherence to truth and honour.
Ayurvedic health tip of the week
Recently, research has indicated that certain herbs like ginseng, schisandra berry, and rosemary can benefit mental health through their interaction with the gut microbiome5. Other herbs like saffron have been used in Ayurveda for centuries, with a known benefit to mood. If you're looking for a way to incorporate such herbs into your diet, consider a post dinner drink and a warm glass of spiced milk/dairy-free milk with a few strands of saffron (look up saffron milk recipes for ideas on how to make this)!
Our trusted Naturopath is: Dr. Poorna Menon, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
Mantra of the Week
Important dates this week
Putrada Ekadashi on January 21, 2024
Opening of the Sri Rama Mandir in Ayodhya January 22, 2024
Putrada Ekadashi on January 21, 2024 Purnima on January 25, 2024
Republic Day on January 26, 2024
Books by Mataji:
Hindu Way of Life Volume 1 & 2
We started the Adiveda newsletter to expand further on the teachings written in the The Hindu Way of life Volume 1 and Volume 2. These books shed light given to us by our great rishis was the only way by which we could help all people to free themselves from the burden of a stress-filled life. These wonderful books are available for purchase and can be delivered worldwide.
If you are interested in purchasing copies of any of Mataji’s books, please email: Vanamaliashram@gmail.com
Announcements
Video series of Vanamali Mataji in Egypt
In October 2023, Vanamali Mataji joined a group to Egypt, hosted by the Ananda College in California, USA.
She visited various sacred places and temples along the Nile and is inviting us in on Her experiences.
Videos are released every Wednesday to Vanamali Mataji’s YouTube channel. Click herefor the latest video.
We hope you enjoy experiencing Egypt through the eyes of Vanamali Mataji.
Bhagavad Gita Discourse
The Song Celestial - Bhagavad Gita Discourse
Vanamali Mataji’s two offerings to understand and love the Bhagavad Gita
Starting January 17th, 2024, Vanamali Mataji will be hosting Her Bhagavad Gita Discourse at Vanamali Ashram in Rishikesh. Sessions will be from 11am-12/12:30pm IST and streamed via Instagram Live.
For those who are interested in starting sooner or are unable to join the January Discourse, the Discourse in December 2022 was professionally recorded and is made available on donation basis. However much the contribution, it serves to honor the efforts of filming. The recordings are shared weekly and address one chapter every week. For anyone interested in receiving the recordings, please contact vanamalibhagavadgita@gmail.com. The Introduction is available in full on YouTube (see link below).
To deepen the teachings of the Discourse, Vanamali Mataji recommends reading along Vanamali’s “Srimad Bhagavad Gita” and commentary “Nitya Yoga” If you would like to acquire a copy, please contact vanamali2@gmail.com. Books ship internationally.
Hari Aum Tat Sat.
Click here for the Introduction to the Bhagavad Gita on YouTube!
How to connect with Mataji & Trusted Contacts
Instagram: @VANAMALIKRISHNA
EVERY Sunday Mataji will host Live Question and Answer on her Instagram page at 11am IST!
YouTube: Vanamali Matajis Youtube
To purchase our books: Vanamali2@gmail.com
For Adiveda Retreats & Classes: Adivedayoga.com | (+91)816-991-5870
Adiveda Vedic Astrologer: Amit (+91)954-841-1670
At your service,
The Adiveda Team
Jai Shri Ram🙏